There are many homes for sale that are currently vacant. That often means that the sellers have already purchased another home. If that is the case, then it is likely that the taxes on the house for sale are non-homestead. Non-homesteaded property is taxed at a much higher rate than homes that are homesteaded (used as a primary residence). If you are considering buying one of these homes, rest assured, the taxes will be converted to homestead if you plan to use it as your primary residence. However, you may have to pay them for a while. The deadline for conversion from non-homestead to homestead for summer taxes is May 1st. If you want to avoid paying those extra taxes, write up that sales agreement now and ask for a close date of May1st or sooner!